Graham Kendrick has been leading people in worship since 1986. You might know him for writing the song "Shine Jesus Shine." His songs have been translated into several languages. After six years without an album release, he's back. Kendrick's new project, What Grace offers solid worship music from this veteran.

Kendrick not only brings us solid music from his arsenal, but teams up with Matt Redman and Martin Smith (of Delirious?) to lead the listener before the Lord's throne. "To You Oh Lord" (featuring Redman) and "Lord You've Been Good To Me" (featuring Smith) are great songs in which the combined vocal talents blend beautifully without detracting from the worshipful mood of the music. Most of the songs are backed by soft bass, pleasant guitar, and simple drum riffs that compliment Kendrick's vocal strengths. However, after listening to a couple of songs, one can tell that the album is not built around showcasing Kendrick's talented voice, but instead focuses on God. In the title track, "What Grace," Kendrick expresses gratitude to the Lord for choosing him for the Lord's work. In "Blessed are the Humble" he shares a desire to be a blessing to the world. One of my personal favorites from the album was "To the King Eternal" - an upbeat song that glorifies God right from the start. Through the remaining songs on the disc, Kendrick brings forth solid worship songs that lead believers to the throne.

I really enjoyed listening to this album; I'm interested to find out what the other artists on Delirious' record label (Furious? Records) have to offer. Kendrick - a 1995 Dove award winner for his international work - shows on What Grace that he indeed knows his way around the worship stage, and has what it takes to lead people in worship. While many people have known this for years, those of us in different parts of the world can now enjoy his musical talent. This album really impressed me - I'll be looking forward to another offering from Kendrick.

- Review date: 11/13/02, written by Colin Ake